Content Creator Suspended Due to Aggressive Behavior

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Image caption: Matthew Selt’s only ranking title win was the 2019 Indian Open

Published 8 hours ago, a notable incident in professional snooker has garnered attention. Matthew Selt, an English player ranked number 30 in the world, has faced serious consequences for his behavior at the recent 2024 Saudi Arabia Masters tournament held in Riyadh.

The World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA), which governs professional snooker and billiards globally, handed down a stern punishment to Selt. He was given a three-month suspended ban and fined 10,000 for exhibiting “rude and aggressive” conduct during the event. The decision came following an investigation into his actions at September’s tournament.

The specific incident involved Selt losing 5-3 in the fourth round to Chinas Pang Junxu after missing a straightforward pot. In what followed, he reacted angrily towards defeat. This aggressive display was coupled with accusations of using rude and abusive language directed not only at an executive from event promoter Matchroom but also towards another WPBSA member.

Further complicating matters for Selt is the charge that he sent an abusive text message to a fellow member, adding another layer to his misconduct allegations. Despite these serious charges, Selt has accepted all three breaches of the WPBSA code of conduct and has apologized “full and wholeheartedly” to those affected.

The WPBSA recognized that Selt was under considerable stress and pressure at the time of these incidents, though this did not mitigate his responsibilities. The suspension will only take effect if he violates any rules again before the end of the 2025-26 season.

Along with the fine for misconduct, Selt also faces an additional financial burden as he is required to pay 11,000 towards the WPBSAs legal costs associated with handling his case. This penalty underscores not just a breach of sportsmanship but highlights the importance of maintaining professional decorum within competitive environments.

Given these events and their outcomes, Selt’s future participation in tournaments will be closely watched as he navigates this period under suspension. The incident serves as a stark reminder to all athletes about the consequences of disrespectful behavior in sport.